Puzzling

Several weeks ago, I started a weekend subscription to my local newspaper, despite the fact that every order includes "bonus" online access, something I neither need nor want and that jacks up the price. I look at some of the news, but the real reason I get the paper is to have the crosswords. Partly because I've been busy and partly because I want something to do on the plane, I have been hoarding puzzles. I have at least ten (three or four Sundays and six to eight Saturdays) packed to take on my trip. I had to limit my puzzle carry-on to two, one Sunday and a Saturday; the bag is heavy now and I haven't put my computer in yet. The rest are squeezed into my already-stuffed suitcase. This might just be the worst packing I've ever done.

Twice before I left home (I'm in Winter Park tonight) I unpacked and repacked my suitcase, trying to find a better way to puzzle it all together. I can't believe I had the crazy idea of leaving enough space to bring things home! I'm going to end up sending a box home. I have enough time to try again. My usual method is to match up outfits as I pack. If I don't, I find myself with too many tops and too few bottoms, or no clean socks or underwear. I think I'm good on the number of things I'm bringing, but I'm not sure it the outfits will match up. I know I won't try to do it again. While I love my son to pieces, I am less enamored of his cat, whose hair is everywhere. And as much as I appreciate his hospitality and generosity of time in letting me stay over and driving me to the airport, I'm allowing my clothing as little contact with his furniture as possible. I don't want to import Florida cat hair into New Mexico or wear it while I'm gone.

At this point, I'm as ready as I'm getting. My alarm is set for 5:30; we'll leave by 6:30 for the airport. If I have to drag a heavy bag through the Denver airport (my layover city on the way out) and on the rental car shuttle bus, I will. It can't be that bad. Next stop (sort of) -- Santa Fe!